France's recognition of Palestinian state: A 'symbolic' move with questionable effectiveness

France will officially recognize the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September, a decision announced by President Emmanuel Macron. The move drew strong condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and was criticized by the United States as a reckless decision. Following France's lead, the United Kingdom announced it would also recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza. This diplomatic push coincided with a UN conference on the two-state solution, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, aimed at building international momentum.